How to Claim Medical Payments (MedPay) on an Alaska Auto Insurance Policy

Short answer: Medical payments coverage (often called MedPay) is a first‑party benefit in many auto policies that can pay for reasonable medical and funeral expenses for you, passengers, and sometimes household members injured in an auto accident—regardless of who was at fault. To claim it in Alaska, act promptly: get medical care, preserve bills and records, notify your insurer, submit the insurer’s claim form and supporting documentation, cooperate during any review, and be aware of subrogation and coordination with other insurance.

Detailed answer — step‑by‑step guide

1. Understand what MedPay is and who it covers

MedPay is a first‑party medical coverage you buy as part of your auto insurance policy. It usually covers:

• Reasonable medical, dental, and funeral expenses from injuries caused by an auto accident.
• The named insured, family members who live with the insured, passengers in the insured vehicle, and sometimes anyone injured while using the insured vehicle with permission (check your policy language).
• Payments regardless of fault, up to the policy limit (for example, $1,000, $5,000, $10,000).

MedPay is different from liability insurance (which pays others’ medical costs if you’re at fault) and different from health insurance. Read your policy’s definitions and limits to confirm who and what is covered.

2. Seek immediate medical care and document everything

Prioritize health. Emergency care, urgent care, and follow‑up visits should be documented. For any MedPay claim you will need:

• Medical records showing diagnosis, dates of visits, and treatment.
• Itemized medical bills and receipts.
• Any police or accident reports (if available).
• A written statement about how the accident happened and who was involved.

3. Notify your auto insurer promptly

Most policies require you to notify the insurer “promptly” after an accident. Even if you don’t yet know the full extent of injuries, give a timely notice so you avoid denial for late reporting. Your insurer will open a claim file and give you claim forms and instructions.

4. File the claim and submit supporting documents

Complete the insurer’s claim form completely and honestly. Attach:

• Medical records and itemized bills.
• Proof of vehicle use and relationship (e.g., proof that injured person was a household member or passenger).
• Any police or accident reports.

Keep copies of everything you send.

5. Know how MedPay coordinates with other coverage

MedPay often coordinates with health insurance. Depending on your policy, MedPay may act as primary (pays first) or as a “wrap” to cover coinsurance, deductibles, or expenses not covered by health insurance. Provide the insurer with your health insurer’s information if requested.

6. Expect insurer review and possible requests

The insurer may ask for additional documentation, an independent medical examination (IME), records releases, or clarification. Cooperate promptly to avoid delays. If they request an IME, you generally must attend or the insurer may deny benefits.

7. Payments, denials, and appeals

If approved, the insurer will pay up to the policy limit for covered, reasonable expenses. If your claim is denied or partially paid, ask for a written explanation of the reason. You can then:

• Provide additional documentation to the insurer.
• Ask for reconsideration or appeal through the insurer’s internal appeal process.
• If you remain dissatisfied, file a complaint with the Alaska Division of Insurance (see link below) or consult an attorney.

8. Subrogation and repayment

If an at‑fault third party (or their insurer) later pays you for medical expenses, your auto insurer may have a subrogation right to recover amounts it paid under MedPay. That means you may need to reimburse your insurer from any third‑party recovery or assign your rights to the insurer. Your policy will state how subrogation is handled.

Alaska‑specific consumer resources and legal references

State agencies that can help you understand auto‑insurance rules and file complaints:

• Alaska Division of Insurance (Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development): https://www.commerce.alaska.gov/web/ins/
• Alaska Legislature — statutes and insurance statutes overview: https://www.akleg.gov/

Note: specific policy requirements, deadlines, and subrogation rights are governed by your policy contract and by Alaska insurance law and regulations. For statute texts or agency guidance, use the Alaska Legislature and the Division of Insurance links above.

Helpful Hints

• Read your policy declarations page to confirm the MedPay limit and who is covered. The declarations page is the summary at the front of your policy.
• Notify insurers in writing when possible and keep proof of delivery (email confirmations, certified mail receipts).
• Keep an organized claims packet: medical records, itemized bills, appointment notes, proof of mileage to appointments, and communication logs with the insurer.
• If your treatment is ongoing, send interim bills so MedPay can make partial payments rather than waiting until all treatment is complete.
• Be cautious about signing away rights. Insurers may ask you to assign benefits or sign releases; read these documents and ask for clarification before signing.
• If you have health insurance, notify that insurer as well. Coordinate benefits to avoid duplicate billing confusion.
• If the insurer requests an independent medical exam, attend it. Missing a scheduled IME can jeopardize your claim.
• If your claim is denied, ask for the denial in writing and the specific policy provision the insurer relied on. This helps if you file a complaint or seek legal help.

When to consider legal help

Consider consulting a lawyer if:

• Your insurer improperly denies or unreasonably delays a legitimate MedPay claim.
• There is a dispute about who the policy covers or what medical expenses are reasonable and necessary.
• There are coordination, subrogation, or third‑party recovery issues that affect your right to benefits.

Important disclaimer: This article is informational only and does not constitute legal advice. It is not a substitute for advice from a qualified attorney or the specific terms of your insurance policy. For legal advice about your situation, contact a licensed attorney in Alaska or the Alaska Division of Insurance.